MLive.com spoke with Douglas about his tenure, the district and what is next for him.

He's been an educator for 39 years and worked for 18 years as superintendent in Carrollton, a district of about 2,000 students on the outskirts of Saginaw.

During his tenure, enrollment has steadily grown.

How did you reach the decision?

I became eligible at 55, so it’s been option. I love the community and the district. I think it’s time. It makes sense for me and for the district. This is an excellent district. I expect many people to apply for the vacancy. My goal is a smooth transition and I think given amount of time, that’s the expectation.

What were some highlights at Carrollton school?

Everything is a highlight. I’m impressed with the students and proud of students. … They represent the community very well.

I’m very proud of our staff. They are dedicated and committed. There is a tendency for people to stay here.

I’m also very proud of our parents. The community support has been terrific. The community has been welcoming to (my wife) Joan and to myself. We plan to stay in the community.

What was the scariest time?

There are always challenges. Columbine shocked us terrifically. The tragedy and 9/11 was similar. They sent shock waves through our community. They were wake up calls for educational community.

What is the hardest decision you have had to make?

I can’t name one. I want to do the right thing for everyone. Making the right call and sometimes the quick decision has to be spot on.

What was your proudest moment?

All of them have been proud moments. Some have been up on stage. We have a tremendous drama and music program. When I came here, choir was club and now it’s a vibrant high school and middle school class. I'm proud to say all kids have vocal music. I can't take credit, but I'm glad to see it evolve.

It's the same with extra curricular activities. The students' efforts on an off the field and in clubs have made me the proudest.

The school board’s leadership has been strong. Being a board member is a time-consuming and tough commitment. These people have done a tremendous job.

What will you miss most?

I love the kids. I’m going to try and stay connected by being a consistent member of the audience. I can’t imagine that roll because I haven’t done it yet.

I believe in our schools and our kids.

What is the biggest challenge facing your successor?

Funding. The level of funding today is fairly close to level of funding in 2007. The cost of retirement, health insurance, fuel have all gone up, but state has not kept pace. That’s going to be a challenge for whoever takes this seat.

I'm optimistic that reason will prevail. The people of Carrollton, Saginaw County and Michigan want good educational systems and stability for their kids.

What is the biggest challenge facing education?

The state really should say, 'How can we make this system work?' The state plays both ends against the middle. They rank schools. I was a math major; rankings are the laziest system you can do. Rankings are simple statistic.

I really would embrace everyone saying, 'We’ve got this to deal with and let’s support everyone to make things better. Let’s not be frivolous.'

If you could change one thing about public education in Michigan, what would it be?

When I came here in 1995, I drove to Lansing and met with our state representatives. I was welcomed; it was a helpful environment. Today in Lansing it may or may not be that way. State Rep. Stacy Erwin Oakes is wonderful and welcoming. That’s not the case with everyone. A helpful attitude would be a great step in the right direction. It wouldn't cost a penny.

What is your next act?

I'll stay in Carrollton. I really love Saginaw County and love our Great Lakes Bay Rregion. My wife feels the same. We’re going to stay in our home and stay active. I love to run and hope to maybe get back to it, and take golf back up more. I haven’t thought that far ahead.

Getting the district's budget in placeis on my watch. I'm focused on that, not so much after June 30. This may be the fourth quarter, but that game is still on.